“Yes, uncle; the day before yesterday.”
“Oh, and were those little casks of spirits got into the store-room?”
“Yes, uncle. I saw the men get them on board myself.”
“That’s right. But look here, Pickle; were you with them all the time?”
“Yes, uncle. You told me to be, before you went up to London.”
“That’s right, Rodd. But—er—did you—did you hear the men make any remark about them?”
“No, uncle; but I saw them smell the bung-holes and look at one another and laugh.”
“Humph!” said the doctor, smiling. “By the way, I think I’ll go on board now and have a look round. There are several things I want to see to, those casks and kegs among the rest.”
“They were all put just as you gave orders, uncle.”
“Yes; but I want to test the spirits all the same. Here, we may as well go on board at once.”